Deep Frying: Grease Management For Best Results

Deep-frying oil can be reused several times, but it's important to know when to replace it to maintain the taste and avoid health risks. The lifespan of frying oil depends on factors like the type of oil, food being fried, frequency of filtering, number of uses, and heating temperature. For example, oils with high smoke points like canola, sunflower, and vegetable oils are better suited for reuse than those with low smoke points, which can turn rancid after 1-2 uses. Breaded foods also require more frequent oil changes due to the higher temperatures needed to fry them. To prolong oil use, it's recommended to filter and store it properly between uses, keeping it in a cool, dark, and airtight place. However, reusing oil for too long can lead to health issues such as increased inflammation, cholesterol, and acidity levels. Therefore, it's important to monitor the oil for signs of degradation, such as discolouration, unusual odours, and excessive smoking, and replace it accordingly.

How to store grease between uses

To store grease between uses, you should first allow the deep fryer to cool down completely. Unplug the appliance and let it sit for several hours if necessary. Once cool, remove the frying basket and wash it with dish soap and hot water. Use a cleaning brush or toothbrush to dislodge any small pieces of food stuck to the basket.

Next, remove the oil from the fryer. Be careful not to add water to the oil, as this could be dangerous. Pour the oil into a plastic bowl or container, using a strainer to catch any leftover food particles if you plan to reuse the oil. If the oil is cloudy, very dark, or has an unpleasant smell, dispose of it in the trash. Otherwise, you can store it for future use.

To store the oil, first strain it to remove any food residue, which can cause the oil to develop a bad taste. Then, pour the strained oil into a clean, washed, and dried one-litre pop bottle or similar container. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dark place until you are ready to use the oil again.

It is important to keep the oil covered and cool when not in use, as light and heat are the main factors that cause oil to spoil. You should also keep track of how many times you reuse the oil and aim to change it after eight to ten uses, or if it starts to smoke at lower temperatures, becomes darker, develops an unpleasant smell, or has a thick and foamy surface.

How to clean a deep fryer

Allow the Fryer to Cool

Before you start cleaning your deep fryer, it's important to let it cool down completely. Unplug the appliance and give it a few hours to cool off if you've used it recently.

Remove the Frying Basket and Oil

Take out the frying basket and wash it in the sink with dish soap and hot water. You can use a cleaning brush or toothbrush to remove any small food particles stuck to the basket. Next, carefully lift the oil reservoir and pour the oil into a plastic container. If you plan to reuse the oil, strain it to remove any leftover food bits. If the oil is cloudy, very dark, or has a strange odour, dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour oil down the sink drain as it can cause plumbing issues.

Scrape the Sides and Bottom

Place your deep fryer on the kitchen counter and use an abrasive sponge or a straight plastic edge to scrape away any build-up on the sides and bottom.

Fill the Fryer with Soapy Water

Add a squirt of liquid dish soap to the inside of the fryer, then fill it with hot water. Plug the fryer back in and turn it on to bring the soapy water to a boil. This process, known as "boiling out" the fryer, helps to break down grease and grime. Let the water boil for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how dirty the fryer is. Keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn't boil away completely.

Cool, Dump, and Rinse

Once the water has boiled, turn off the fryer, unplug it, and let it cool completely. After everything is cool, dump out the soapy water and rinse the inside of the fryer thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains.

Wipe Down the Fryer

Use a rag or microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the fryer, removing any remaining sticky oil and grease. If necessary, use a small bowl of liquid dish soap and hot water to create suds, dipping the cloth into the mixture as you scrub. Once the inside is clean, wipe down the outside of the fryer, including the cord, to remove any oil spatter.

Tackle Tough Grease with Baking Soda (Optional)

If there is still a sticky film or residue on your fryer, create a baking soda paste by mixing a spoonful of baking soda with hot water. Work this paste into the affected areas. If your fryer has a nonstick coating, use a soft cleaning brush to work the paste in. If it has a metal reservoir, you can use a steel wool sponge to scour dirty areas.

Let the Fryer Dry

After cleaning, wipe down the fryer with a clean, dry cloth, and let the rest of it air dry. Ensure the fryer is completely dry before refilling it with oil and using it again.

Cleaning Tips

• You don't need to clean your deep fryer after each use. The oil can be reused for multiple frying sessions. However, it's important to clean your fryer regularly to prevent buildup.
• Avoid all electrical components when cleaning your deep fryer.
• Never submerge your deep fryer in water or put it in the dishwasher.
• Clean your deep fryer every three months if you use it at least once a week.

How to know when grease has gone bad

Grease can go bad over time, and its longevity depends on factors such as composition, storage conditions, and the environment in which it's kept. Here are some detailed indicators to know when grease has gone bad:

Separation of Components

Look out for signs of separation between the oil and thickener in the grease. If you notice oil pooling on the surface, it's a sign that the components have started to separate, compromising the consistency and lubricating properties of the grease.

Change in Texture

Grease that has significantly hardened or become too soft compared to its original consistency may not perform as intended. This could be due to exposure to extreme temperatures or other environmental factors.

Discoloration or Unusual Odor

Any noticeable change in the color or smell of the grease can indicate chemical changes that may affect its performance. For example, bacon grease typically has a rich, savory smell, and a rancid odor indicates that it has gone bad.

Contamination

Contamination can accelerate the degradation of grease. Check for signs of dust, moisture, or other contaminants that may have entered the container. Always use clean and dry utensils when handling grease to prevent contamination.

Expiration Date

Some types of grease may have an expiration date indicated on the packaging. While grease can last for many years, volatile additives may affect its shelf life.

Thick and Sticky Texture

If the consistency of the grease has become thick and sticky, it could be a sign that it's no longer suitable for use. This may be due to the separation of oil and wax components or other forms of degradation.

To prolong the life of your grease, follow best practices such as proper storage in a cool, dry place, sealed containers, regular inspections, and adhering to the manufacturer's recommendations for specific storage guidelines.

How to dispose of grease

Disposing of grease and cooking oil is an important step in keeping your kitchen clean and safe, as well as protecting your plumbing and the environment. Here are some detailed instructions on how to dispose of grease properly:

Step 1: Allow the Grease to Cool

Before attempting to dispose of grease, it is crucial to let it cool down completely. Hot grease can cause burns and may damage plastic containers or trash bags. Leave the grease at room temperature until it is no longer warm to the touch.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Container

Select a container that can be sealed tightly and is made of a material that can withstand oil without deteriorating. Examples include an empty jar, a milk carton, an empty laundry detergent bottle, or a dedicated grease container. Ensure that the container can be sealed tightly to prevent spills.

Step 3: Proper Sealing and Disposal

Once the grease has cooled, carefully transfer it to the chosen container. Seal the container tightly to prevent leaks. If the container is full, you can dispose of it directly in your household trash bin. For partially filled containers, continue to add grease until it is full before disposing of it. Always keep the container upright during disposal.

Alternative Disposal Methods

While disposing of grease in the trash is a common method, there are more environmentally friendly alternatives:

• Recycling: Many areas offer cooking oil recycling programs, especially for larger quantities. Recycled cooking oil can be converted into biodiesel fuel. Check with your local waste management department or online resources to find a collection site near you.
• Composting: Small amounts of vegetable oil can be added to your compost bin. However, avoid composting animal fats as they can cause odours and attract pests.
• Reuse: Straining and storing used grease allows you to reuse it several times. After straining the grease through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are several common mistakes that people make when disposing of grease:

• Pouring grease down the drain: This is one of the most harmful mistakes, as it can cause clogs and costly plumbing issues. It also has negative environmental consequences.
• Improper storage: Leaving grease in an open container can attract pests and create fire hazards.
• Not checking local regulations: Different areas may have specific guidelines or recycling programs for grease disposal.
• Mixing grease with other waste: Combining grease with other types of waste can contaminate recycling efforts.
• Ignoring small amounts: Even small amounts of grease can contribute to plumbing and environmental issues.

Health risks of using grease for too long

Grease in a deep fryer should be changed after eight to ten uses, or when it starts to smoke, foam, or has a foul odor, taste, or smell. This is important not only to maintain the taste of the fried food but also to protect your health.

Using grease for too long in a deep fryer can have several negative health consequences:

• Increased inflammation and cholesterol levels: Reheated cooking oil can raise inflammation and cholesterol levels in the body. This is due to the production of aldehydes (toxic elements) when oil is reheated.
• Higher risk of infections and diseases: Consuming rancid oil can increase free radicals in the body, which can lead to reduced immunity and make individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.
• Contagious heart diseases: Food fried in overly used and reheated oil can increase the levels of bad cholesterol in the body, which is a risk factor for various heart diseases.
• Acidity and stomachaches: Reheated cooking oil is often the culprit behind acidity and stomachaches experienced after consuming deep-fried food, especially from roadside vendors who may not change their oil frequently.
• Cancer: Reheating oil can make it carcinogenic, and consuming anything that is carcinogenic increases the possibility of developing cancer.
• Burns: Deep fryer burns are a common occurrence due to splashing and spitting hot oil. Burns are a leading cause of workplace injuries, and there have been lawsuits regarding severe burns sustained from working with and cleaning deep fryers.

Frequently asked questions